The world of the army is filled with its own set of unique terms and expressions that might leave some scratching their heads. But fear not, we’ve got your six! Our team has delved into the world of military slang to bring you a curated list of the top slang for the army. So, buckle up and get ready to decode the language of the brave men and women who serve our country.
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1. Grunts
Grunts refer to the foot soldiers or infantry soldiers in the army. They are the ones who do the majority of the fighting on the ground.
- For example, a soldier might say, “I’ve been a grunt for five years now.”
- During a military operation, a grunt might radio in, “We have enemy contact, requesting backup.”
- A veteran might reminisce, “Being a grunt taught me the importance of teamwork and resilience.”
2. Dogfaces
Dogfaces is a term used to describe infantry soldiers. It originated during World War II, when soldiers in the trenches were compared to the dirty and scruffy appearance of a dog’s face.
- For instance, a soldier might say, “We’re all just dogfaces fighting for our country.”
- During a training exercise, an instructor might shout, “Move it, dogfaces! Double time!”
- A veteran might share a war story, “We were a group of dogfaces fighting against the odds.”
3. Doughboys
Doughboys is a term used to refer to American soldiers, particularly those who fought in World War I. The term originated from the adage that American soldiers were so young and inexperienced that they were as soft as dough.
- For example, a historian might say, “Doughboys played a significant role in the outcome of World War I.”
- During a discussion about military history, someone might ask, “Why were American soldiers called doughboys?”
- A veteran might say, “I’m proud to be a doughboy and serve my country.”
4. Cherry
Cherry is a slang term used to describe an inexperienced soldier, especially someone who has just joined the army. It is often used in a derogatory manner.
- For instance, a drill sergeant might yell at a new recruit, “You’re such a cherry! Get it together!”
- During a deployment, a more experienced soldier might say, “Don’t worry, cherry, we’ll show you the ropes.”
- A veteran might reflect, “I remember when I was a cherry, clueless and eager to prove myself.”
5. Ranger
A Ranger is a highly trained and skilled soldier who is part of a special operations force within the army. They undergo rigorous training and are known for their expertise in combat and special missions.
- For example, a soldier might say, “I’m proud to be a Ranger and part of an elite team.”
- During a conversation about military careers, someone might ask, “What does it take to become a Ranger?”
- A veteran might share their experience, “Being a Ranger pushed me beyond my limits and made me a better soldier.”
6. 11B
This is a military occupational specialty (MOS) code used by the U.S. Army to identify a soldier who serves as an infantryman. The number “11B” is the MOS code for an infantryman.
- For example, a soldier might say, “I’m proud to be an 11B in the Army.”
- In a conversation about military jobs, someone might ask, “What does it take to become an 11B?”
- A veteran might share, “Being an 11B taught me discipline and teamwork.”
7. Combat Engineer
A combat engineer is a soldier who specializes in constructing and demolishing structures, as well as clearing obstacles on the battlefield. Another term for a combat engineer is a “sapper,” which refers to their ability to undermine or breach enemy fortifications.
- For instance, a soldier might say, “I’m a combat engineer, also known as a sapper.”
- In a discussion about military operations, someone might mention, “Sappers play a crucial role in breaching enemy defenses.”
- A combat engineer might share, “Being a sapper requires both physical and technical skills.”
8. Gunner
A gunner is a soldier responsible for operating and maintaining artillery weapons, such as cannons or howitzers. In the Army, gunners are often referred to as “cannon cockers” due to their role in firing cannons.
- For example, a soldier might say, “I’m a gunner in the artillery unit.”
- In a conversation about military roles, someone might ask, “What does a gunner do?”
- A veteran might share, “Being a cannon cocker requires precision and teamwork.”
9. Sniper
A sniper is a highly trained soldier who specializes in shooting targets accurately over long distances. They are known for their marksmanship skills and ability to remain concealed. Another term for a sniper is a “sharpshooter.”
- For instance, a soldier might say, “I’m a sniper in the Army.”
- In a discussion about military tactics, someone might mention, “Snipers provide valuable long-range support.”
- A sniper might share, “Being a sharpshooter requires patience and attention to detail.”
10. 12B
This is a military occupational specialty (MOS) code used by the U.S. Army to identify a soldier who serves as a combat engineer. The number “12B” is the MOS code for a combat engineer.
- For example, a soldier might say, “I’m proud to be a 12B in the Army.”
- In a conversation about military jobs, someone might ask, “What does it take to become a 12B?”
- A veteran might share, “Being a 12B taught me valuable construction and demolition skills.”
11. Warfighters
This term refers to individuals who actively engage in warfare or combat. It highlights the role of soldiers as fighters on the front lines.
- For example, a military commander might say, “Our warfighters have shown great bravery and skill in the face of adversity.”
- In a discussion about military strategy, someone might mention, “Warfighters are trained to adapt and overcome any obstacle.”
- A veteran might reflect, “Being a warfighter requires mental and physical toughness.”
12. Soldiers
This is a general term for individuals who serve in the military. It encompasses all branches and ranks, emphasizing the collective nature of military service.
- For instance, a news article might report, “Hundreds of soldiers deployed to the conflict zone.”
- In a conversation about military culture, someone might say, “Soldiers sacrifice a lot for their country.”
- A military historian might discuss, “The role of soldiers throughout history in shaping the world.”
13. Green Machine
This phrase is a nickname for the Army, often used in a playful or informal manner. It references the color of the Army’s uniforms and vehicles.
- For example, a soldier might say, “I’m proud to be part of the Green Machine.”
- In a military-themed movie, a character might exclaim, “Welcome to the Green Machine!”
- A military recruitment slogan might use the phrase, “Join the Green Machine and make a difference.”
14. Soldier
This term specifically refers to an individual serving in the Army. It highlights their role as a warrior, someone trained and prepared for combat.
- For instance, a military ceremony might recognize, “Each soldier standing here is a true warrior.”
- In a discussion about military values, someone might say, “A soldier embodies loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.”
- A soldier might reflect, “Becoming a soldier is a life-changing experience.”